Operating Systems OS

• Operating system


  The interface between the computer hardware and the user.
• Network operating system (NOS)


  Software that connects multiple devices and computers on the network and allows them to share resources on the network.
• Types of network operating systems

  • Peer-to-peer
  • Client/server
• Peer-to-peer network operating systems

  • Allow users to share network resources saved in a common, accessible network location. All devices are treated equally in terms of functionality. Works best for small to medium LANs.
• Client/server network operating systems

  • Provide users with access to resources through a server. All functions and applications are unified under one file server that can be used to execute individual client actions regardless of physical location. Tends to be most expensive to implement and requires a large amount of technical maintenance. Advantage is that the network is controlled centrally, making changes or additions to technology easier to incorporate.
• Common features of a network OS

  • Highly stable due to central server
  • Provide good security
  • Upgradation of new technology and hardware can be easily implemented in the network
  • Provide remote access to servers from different locations
• Disadvantages of client-server network OS

  • Depend on the central location to perform the operations
  • High cost to buying server
  • Regular updating and maintenance are required